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Articles and Advice from our Pet Expert

Paws to Show Pets Love On Valentines Day

Does your pet have you wrapped around his or her little paws? You’re not alone!

New research from BISSELL Homecare Inc. shows that the relationship between pets and pet owners goes far beyond puppy love. In fact, nearly six in ten pet owners say their four-legged companions are more likely to give them a kiss as soon as they walk in the door than their significant other. While 66 percent of American pet owners call their pet their best friend, 59 percent call Fifi or Fido their “snuggle buddy,”and 49 percent say they give their pets holiday gifts, such as for Valentine’s Day.Valentine gifts for pets can take a variety of forms. Sandy Reiber of Lincoln, Neb., says she plans to spoil her jack russell terrier, Diego, with extra cuddling, belly rubs and a heart shaped cookie this year. Fellow Nebraskan Melissa McCormick says her dogs will get special bones from the butcher, and Brent Silverwright of Hudson, Fla., intends to indulge his 19-year-old Chihuahua with cheeseburgers from McDonald’s and a trip to the dog park.

While the American Pet Products Association (APPA) estimates that most of us will spend an average of $6 on Fifi (cats) and $9 on Fido (dogs) for Valentine’s Day, you don’t have to spend a dime to show your pet how much you care for it. Our furry friends want little more than our time, attention and love.

The love affair between humans and their pets is deepening every day according to statistics from the 2009-2010 APPA National Pet Owners Survey. This study reveals that, despite the struggling economy, Americans are purr-fectly happy to keep spending on their beloved pets.

According to the survey:

Seventy percent of American pet owners say the current economic situation has had little negative impact on their decision whether or not to own a pet.

More than 80 percent of pet owners report that they have not changed their spending patterns and continue to spend the same amount on their pet during the recession.

Even in households with incomes under $25K and between $25-$50K, to a large degree (57 percent and 67 percent respectively), pet ownership levels have remained unchanged despite the difficult economy.

So enjoy Valentine’s Day with your furry pal. Make some homemade doggie treats or bring home a little catnip. Indulge in one more game of catch and let ‘em sleep on the bed and under the covers. Scratch that soft belly until there’s a hole in the floor and be sure to rub behind those soft ears until they can purr no more.

Time and love – isn’t that what we all want from our best friends and companions on Valentine’s Day?